Key Takeaways
- Sativa strains of cannabis are prized for energizing and uplifting effects.
- Some patients say they prefer sativa strains when seeking support for mood, focus, or daytime discomfort.
- Strains like AK-47 and Sour Diesel are longtime favorites among sativa enthusiasts.
Sativa strains are a favorite among both medical patients and cannabis connoisseurs for their reported energizing daytime high and ability to infuse a spark of sunshine into the user's mood.
Even with the ever-growing number of sativa strains, some have stood the test to time and risen to legendary status. So, if you're looking for the absolute best sativa strains, look no further.
5 Best Sativa Strains of All Time
Because cannabis is in many ways a very personal experience, listing the best strains can be a challenging undertaking. If you are new to sativas, these cultivars make a good starting point to explore the effects and potential benefits of the group.
AK-47
A sativa strain prized for its energizing, uplifting effects, AK-47 is a THC-rich cultivar that usually expresses generous levels of myrcene, pinene, and caryophyllene. Some consumers say AK-47 helps them unwind or maintain a chill state of mind throughout the day. Others enjoy its mellow effects during creative or social activities.
Durban Poison
This sativa strain is named for the port city of Durban, South Africa, where it originated. Tasty and aromatic, Durban Poison is rich in THC, often with a generous dose (about 1%) of THCV. Many fans describe Durban Poison as an energizing strain. They might turn to it when looking to stay active, uplifted, or clear-headed throughout the day.
Sour Diesel
Known for its namesake gassy, skunky aroma, Sour Diesel is a sativa strain high in terpenes including caryophyllene, myrcene, limonene, and pinene. A THC-rich strain, Sour Diesel can also have CBD levels as high as 2%. Sour Diesel is often described as talkative, stimulating, and upbeat. These are often traits that appeal to consumers that are after a daytime strain with social or creative appeal.
Amnesia Haze
This sativa strain is prized for its euphoric effects that can make the user talkative or even giggly. Amnesia Haze is rich in the terpenes humulene, limonene, caryophyllene, and myrcene. This cultivar is known for generous THC levels as well as trace amounts of the cannabinoids CBD and CBG. Some consumers say it helps them relax or enjoy a more positive mindset.
Jack Herer
Named for the passionate cannabis and hemp activist, Jack Herer is a sativa-dominant strain rich in the terpenes terpinolene, caryophylene, and pinene. It is a THC-rich strain that can also have as much as 1% CBG. Jack Herer’s uplifting qualities have made it a longtime favorite. It's popular among those who enjoy cannabis for focus, creativity, or a pick-me-up during the day.
While these five strains can serve as an A-list introduction to the group, there are many more sativa cultivars available. If the strains listed here aren’t available from your favorite retailer, ask your budtender to recommend alternatives that are likely to have similar effects. With a bit of testing, many can find a cannabis strain that aligns with their preferences and lifestyle.
What Makes a Strain Sativa?
One of the many wonders of cannabis is the tremendous variety of characteristics exhibited by different cultivars (commonly referred to as strains) of the plant. Some plants are tall and conical, while others have a more rounded, bushy shape. This variety extends to the effects of cannabis, as well, with some varieties imparting an uplifting, cerebral high, while others relax the body into couch-locked bliss.
To help explain this variation, cultivars are commonly grouped into the categories sativa, indica, and hybrid. These groupings are based on the taxonomic and genetic differences among various cannabis cultivars, including plant morphology and psychoactivity, and can give patients and consumers insight into the expected effects of a particular strain.
Under this loose classification system, sativas are plants with narrow leaflets and a tall, conical shape, while indicas have broad leaflets and a rounder, bushier shape. Sativas are thought to impart a cerebral, creative, and uplifting buzz, while the heavy, full-body high of indicas can be relaxing or even sedating. Hybrid varieties are crosses between sativa and indica cultivars that can express characteristics that blend traits from both parents.
Common Sativa Strain Effects and Characteristics
The differences in the effects of sativa, indica, and hybrid cultivars are primarily due to variations in the amount and ratio of cannabinoids and terpenes (aromatic compounds that contribute to the familiar yet varied odor of cannabis).
Sativas are often rich in the terpenes limonene and terpinolene. They generally have high levels of THC and often express slightly higher levels of the cannabinoids CBC and CBG.
Their uplifting and stimulating effects have made sativa strains a favorite among many consumers, including some patients seeking daytime use. Although each cultivar is unique, most sativas will have some combination of the following effects:
- Uplifting: Many sativa fans appreciate the mood-lifting effects associated with these varieties.
- Energizing: Sativa highs are generally considered energizing and stimulating, traits especially popular with patients and consumers who use cannabis throughout the day.
- Creative: Sativa strains are often associated with boosting creativity and sparking new ideas and perspectives.
- Focus: Some consumers say sativas help them feel more alert or focused, especially for tasks that require concentration.
Why Do Patients Choose Sativa Strains?
Some patients say they prefer sativa strains when seeking support for mood, focus, or daytime discomfort. Others describe feeling more uplifted or energized compared to other strain types. That said, experiences can vary widely depending on the cultivar and the individual.
Some consumers report that sativas help them manage discomfort and be more at ease.
Remember that everyone is different. What works for one patient may not work for another. If a particular sativa strain or sativa strains in general don’t help you achieve the desired effect, consider trying something else. Consult a healthcare professional who specializes in cannabis for the best results.
The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.
